Richard Arnold 1947-2025
Richard Warren Arnold, 78, of Holton, passed away Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka.
He was born March 31, 1947, in Holton, the son of William “Bill” and Kathryn G. (Kehler) Arnold.
Richard graduated from Holton High School in 1965. He worked for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company as a tire builder and serviceman for more than 40 years, retiring in 2009. He was a member of United Steel Workers Local #307.
Richard was a member of St. Dominic Catholic Church in Holton and the Knights of Columbus. He was a past member of the Optimist Club, a lifetime member of the FFA Alumni and served as a USD 336 school board member. Richard was a former member and lifelong supporter of the Lucky Stars 4-H Club and a Jackson County Fair enthusiast. For many years, he also assisted Holton High School athletics by serving as a football clock operator and spotter. Richard was an avid sports fan, especially cheering on the KU Jayhawks.
Richard was married to Linda Mae Meyer on Aug. 27, 1966, in Holton. She survives of the home.
He is also survived by his sons, William “Bill” Arnold (Mickey) of Topeka and Patrick Arnold (Teresa) of Holton; his daughter, Neely Giangreco (Andrew) of Kansas City, Mo.; his sister, Barbara Mattox of Holton; his brother, Allen Arnold (Sharon) of Holton; his grandchildren, Grant Arnold (Mollie), Kalie Soto (Seth), Sam, Zach and Dani Giangreco, Gwyn and Gavin Arnold, Colter Rhodd (Quinn) and Kinleigh and Kolby Rhodd; and his great-grandchildren, Leo Soto and Everlee Soto.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mary Cady.
Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18 at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Holton. Burial will follow at the Holton Cemetery. A rosary will be recited at 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. The family will then greet friends until 6 p.m. following the rosary. Richard will lie in state from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16 at the funeral home.
Memorials may be given to Beck Bookman Library or Knights of Columbus, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
